A new scholarship to boost social mobility and diversity in radiology has opened for applications from medical students.
The Hexarad Scholarship is a joint initiative between teleradiology company Hexarad and the St George’s University of London Afro-Caribbean Society. Supported by the RCR, it aims to encourage further diversity by providing UK-based Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates an insight into the specialty.
The successful applicant will receive access to a UK-based radiologist with a defined research, educational or service improvement project, plus funding towards the presentation of work at a UK or European conference.
The scholarship was created in response to an open letter written by students from St. George’s Afro-Caribbean Society in 2020 about their own experiences of discrimination while studying medicine. It has resulted in a developing partnership between the society and Hexarad, driven by a shared desire to tackle racial barriers.
Dr Jaymin Patel, Chief Operating Officer at Hexarad, said:
'We are delighted to launch the Hexarad Scholarship to UK medical students in collaboration with the St. George's University of London Afro-Caribbean Society and supported by The Royal College of Radiologists. Promoting diversity is key to our core company values, we hope that in creating this scholarship we not only benefit the individuals who apply and succeed, but foster an open landscape to have meaningful conversations relating to social mobility and diversity, enabling real change.'
Dr Stephen Harden, Medical Director for Clinical Radiology Education and Training at the RCR, said:
‘The RCR is delighted to offer its support to the Hexarad Scholarship in partnership with St George’s University of London Afro-Caribbean Society. We’re committed to playing our part in eradicating inequalities in medical training and medical practice. This scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for those who may find their journey through medical training more challenging as a result of their ethnicity, allowing these colleagues to explore the field of radiology and the excellent career opportunities it can offer.’
Application to the scheme is open until midnight on 12 April 2021, with candidates required to submit a short 500-word essay. All students applying will be invited to attend a BAME leadership event in 2021 and the winning essay will be published in the RCR Newsletter.
Find out more about the eligibility criteria and how to apply
